Free health clinic: Doors open at LA Sports Arena

Thousands of uninsured people are finally getting the health care they need thanks to a free four-day clinic that opened its doors Thursday at the L.A. Sports Arena.

Patients received everything from immunizations to eye exams.

"For us, we get slammed every year," said Don Manelli, president of Care Harbor. "We give out everything we have to give, and there's still people in line waiting."

The event used to be called Care Now, but organizers said it didn't reflect all that was happening at the arena. Now, the event is called Care Harbor L.A. because they have expanded follow-up care.

There are 85 different clinics at the arena to sign up patients and make appointments for any post-care needs.

Also expanded this year is the dental care area. Most people come to the event for root canals, extractions and fillings. Last year, there were 80 chairs, but this year, there are 100.

The vision service area continues to be a huge presence, and also new this year is a kid zone. Besides a play area, children can learn about nutrition, exercise and brushing their teeth.

"It's something that's needed for everyone no matter what race, what socioeconomic background you have, or what you have done in your life," said Lisa Ward of Lake Elsinore. "It is important that we be here and help each other."

Ward is a retired nurse, and her husband is a retired from the L.A. County Sheriff's Department, but both do not have enough insurance. They are just two of thousands of people who have gathered at the L.A. Sports Arena.

All 4,800 wristbands have been handed out, and 1,200 people will be served on Thursday. The event at the Sports Arena at 3939 S. Figeuroa Ave. lasts until Sunday, Sept. 30, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.